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May 4 Jiobit Tracking Device Review

Our family travels frequently. We are always going to new playgrounds, crowded venues and just unfamiliar places. With 3 little ones 5 and under I have been eyeing GPS tracking devices for some time. After researching a lot of different options the Jiobit seemed to fit the bill, both practically and financially.

Once they arrived I was impressed with how light they are. When looking for a tracking device for the kids to wear one of my biggest concerns was comfort. Right out of the box I loved not only the weight but also the size. Jiobit compares it to AA battery. No matter how well the device works if the kids won’t wear them it doesn’t matter. I can promise you that keeping a big bulky watch on them all day wasn’t going to work. I can barely keep the Magic Band on their wrist at Disney World.

Graham (5) showing his Jiobit and his Magicband

First step, is to charge the devices and pair them. Download the ap before you get your device and then you will be ready to go once it arrives. Next, set-up "Trusted Places" for each child. Then, add additional monitoring adults. They call these adults the "Care Team." You can run the Jiobit in just a traditional monitoring mode, where it updates in the background and alerts you if the child leaves a secure place or you can turn on tracking to follow your child's every move (this is not intended to be kept on at all times.) The Jiobit has a built-in loop, a clip and a secure loop attachment.

One of the features I am most looking forward to using is the geo-fencing feature. This option allows you to set up a fence and get an additional alert when they leave that area. Ideally, I can set this up when at a playground and they can roam without me being fearful of one of them leaving without my knowledge.

Cost: I had a really difficult time finding the current costs for the Jiobit monthly plan. I found that they charge $99.99 for the device with a 1 year commitment at $9.99/mth or $129.99 for the device with no commitment. I could not find how much the monthly cost is for additional users. I paid $179.97 for all 3 devices to be monitored for 2 years. When I purchased them they were $129.99 each. I ended up paying about $30/mth for the devices and the monitoring for all 3 of my children.

Isla (3) showing off her Jiobit

After a month of constant use here are my thoughts: Putting the Jiobit on securely is very simple when the child has a belt loop. I find it more frustrating when they don't. I will be sewing little loops into Isla's dresses that don't have pockets. Switching from the clip to the loop is more difficult than I would have desired. Honestly, at times it is nearly impossible to switch the clips without a small flathead screwdriver. All of that said, I am happy we have the Jiobit's for added piece of mind. The geo-fencing feature is easy to use. I did forget a puck for the charger on our last trip, it is a USB plug only. I ended up using my iPhones puck, which was fine but took away from time charging my phone. I have since added an extra puck to my suitcase so that doesn't happen again.

Update: I just received an email that they have redesigned the clip. I can’t wait to try it!